Fanboys and fangirls are a special breed in the gaming
world. Armed with zealous enthusiasm they single-handedly have the ability to
make or break games, breathe life back into flailing franchises, and (if they
use their powers for evil) start flame wars across the Internet. Undying
devotion to a character, game or developer has spawned fansites, wikis, epic
works of art, and the desire to participate in the ultimate fan tribute –
cosplay. This weekly blog highlights some of the best gaming related costumes
found around the net. These fans put their blood, sweat and tears into their
work, and it shows.

In the world of BioShock costumes, Big Daddy(s) often steal the show. This isn’t the case with Monika Lee’s impressively executed Little Sister cosplay, complete with distressed duds, eeiry eyes, and an LED lit ADAM syringe. Check out her fantastic craftsmanship below.

Epi-Corner’s Epic Warrior of Light costume shows how a little can go a
long way. Primarily constructed out of craft foam in a two-month
marathon of little sleep, the final photos look like the game came to
life.

Final Fantasy IX’s animated art direction and stylized characters make it tough for cosplayers to accurately tackle. What attracted me to Geb Geb’s phenomenal Garnet costume is not only the craftsmanship, but the fact that she embodies the character with an uncanny resemblance – a perfect fit if I’ve ever seen one.

Konami’s Castlevania series boasts some of the most intricate and elegant costumes in the business. This reality makes taking on a character from the franchise a challenging prospect, but one that Adelhaid and Faeryx overcame, and then some.

Not only are these costumes impressive on a technical level, but the moody and majestic photography puts this cosplay heads and shoulders above the competition. Major props to both Dark and Ven on their phenomenal Birth by Sleep tribute.

Odin Sphere plays host to many amazing character designs, including fan-favorite Velvet. Cosplayer Kalisheedra pulls off the simple but chic costume with style, and has inspired me to start the hunt for an equally impressive Gwendolyn costume. But for now, enjoy!

Sorceress Edea is not only one of my favorite characters in
the video game realm, but one of my favorite character designs. That's why I
was excited to stumble upon Hopie Chan's fantastic rendition of Final Fantasy VIII's antagonist. Check out
her gallery below!

You may remember cosplayer Nebulauben from her fantastic
Bayonetta recreation a while back.
This time, the seasoned cosplayer has returned for a tribute to Capcom's Lost
Planet, with partner Erikku-Kun by her side.

I've heard time and time again (and know from personal
experience) that cosplay can be a huge motivation to get in shape and improve
your health. Cosplayer Elffi set his eye on Dissidia's Jecht and did just that.